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Ephebiphobiais the fear of teenagers or youth.
Its derived from the Greek words ephebos and phobos, which mean youth and fear, respectively.
Symptoms may include the following:
Is Ephebiphobia Rare?
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Therefore, it seems logical that the phobia of teenagers is rare.
Is Ephebiphobia On the Rise?
However, its not a new phenomenon, with research from 1998 discussing the fear of youth.
So, What Triggers Ephebiphobia Exactly?
Ephebiphobia can be difficult to deal withparticularly as its difficult to avoid teenagers altogether.
Its just not practical.
In some ways, treating ephebiphobia is similar to treating any other phobia.
With a lack of knowledge and understanding being one of the primary causes of ephebiphobia, education is important.
Exposure Therapy
Then theresexposure therapy.
This involves gradual exposure to more positive experiences with teenagers and young people.
Or, you could try taking part in activities that involve teenagers.
Consider the many famous teenagers, who defy many of the popular perceptions of teenagers.
And other forms of therapy are always an option.
How Can I Cope With Ephebiphobia If I Have Teenage Children?
Of course, living with ephebiphobia will be particularly difficult if you have teenagers or pre-teens yourself.
But, fortunately, there are things that you could doand the earlier the better.
Spelman adds, Cultivate empathy and understanding to build a stronger connection with your children.
Self-Reflect and Speak Openly With Your Children
Self-reflectioncan also be useful.
Open communication is also important, explains Spelman.
Foster open and honest dialogue with your children, she says.
Listen to their perspectives, validate their experiences, and take a stab at understand their point of view.
What This Means For You
Ephebiphobia can be difficult to manage and live with.
American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed.
National Institute of Mental Health.Specific phobia.
Corrie E.Fear and loathing: the rise of ephebiphobia and its implications for youth activism.Four Dead in Ohio.Vol 45.
Research in Social Movements, Conflicts and Change.
2021:33-56. doi:10.1108/S0163-786X20210000045003
Walklate S.Crime and community: Fear or trust?.Br.
2003;27(2):151-171. doi:10.1177/030981680308000109
